Disney fans spend a lot of time complaining about things that they don’t like. You’ll hear the phrase “Walt is rolling over in his grave” as if they actually knew him! While I do complain from time to time, I also like to think about the positive. There are many things that I think that Walt Disney would be proud of. That’s exactly what I think of the newly reopened Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Simply put, Animation Courtyard is brilliant. There is so much going on that you won’t see it all! I’ve been several times since it opened, and I discover new things each visit. That’s going to keep me coming back.
Animation Courtyard is filled with characters. These aren’t meet and greets, the characters are in their environments. You might see Rapunzel playing Duck, Duck, Goose, or Mulan talking to kids about their pets. There are also classic characters wandering around. I’ve seen Pluto, Goofy, Donald, Stitch, and Chip ‘n’ Dale, all out at the same time! The characters play games with the kids and interact with each other in ways that I’ve never witnessed before.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! offers a break from the heat. It’s also a really fun show. The Record Setters are also now in Animation Courtyard, the times are listed in the My Disney Experience App.
The details in Animation Courtyard are part of the fun. There are character statuettes, how many can you find? There are handprints and pawprints. There is seating and some shade.
And the fun is just beginning in Animation Courtyard. The Magic of Disney Animation building isn’t open yet! That’s set to open late this summer. Some of the characters will be moving inside at that time. I hope that they keep the same playful nature.
When I visit Animation Courtyard and see all the fun that the kids and the adults are having, I can’t help but smile. It’s easy to picture Walt Disney sitting in the shadows, watching and smiling himself. Well done, Imagineers.